1979 Opel Kadett vs. 2005 Saturn ION
To start off, 2005 Saturn ION is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Opel Kadett. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Opel Kadett would be higher. At 2,196 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Saturn ION is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Saturn ION (140 HP) has 89 more horse power than 1979 Opel Kadett. (51 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Saturn ION should accelerate faster than 1979 Opel Kadett. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Saturn ION weights approximately 454 kg more than 1979 Opel Kadett. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 Opel Kadett is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1979 Opel Kadett. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Saturn ION, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2005 Saturn ION (197 Nm) has 117 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Opel Kadett. (80 Nm). This means 2005 Saturn ION will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Opel Kadett.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Opel Kadett | 2005 Saturn ION | |
| Make | Opel | Saturn |
| Model | Kadett | ION |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1196 cc | 2196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 51 HP | 140 HP |
| Torque | 80 Nm | 197 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 79 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 61 mm | 94 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 790 kg | 1244 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4140 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 43 L | 49 L |
